With some of the coldest air of this winter expected in the Tennessee Valley region through mid-week, TVA is offering ways to help save energy and save money on their power bills. TVA is actively monitoring weather conditions, and our power system remains stable. TVA employees and local power companies are working around the clock to keep the electricity flowing.
What can you do to reduce your energy usage?
- Set your thermostat to 65-68 degrees. Each degree you lower your thermostat can save you as much as 3 percent on your monthly energy bill.
- Ensure your window coverings on the sunny side of your house are open during the day.
- Unplug unused electronics.
- Unblock your air vents.
- Reduce your energy usage during peak times by turning off non-essential appliances and lights and refrain from using large appliances during the coldest part of the day.
- Postpone use of hot water and adjust water heater’s temperature during peak times.
- Weatherstrip doors and windows.
- Commercial Business: Turn off any lights and office equipment (or place in sleep mode) when not in use and turn off air-conditioning/heating outside of business hours.
- Click here for audio from Ashley England, TVA EnergyRight Marketing Manager, on how to save energy on cold days.
When is the “peak” period? During the winter, peak usage normally occurs in the morning between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m. local time. That’s when people normally get up and get their day started.
Other resources through TVA EnergyRight:
- Homeowners can earn rebates for home energy upgrades (link includes a list with dollar amounts).
- What is a home energy evaluation and how do you get one? Glad you asked. Learn more here.
- Businesses can receive financial incentives for qualifying equipment purchases.
TVA has been preparing for winter demand all year. Our seasonal readiness program kicked off in September as our hydro, gas, and coal generating sites completed hundreds of tasks to make sure we are prepared to meet peak demand. TVA invested more than $430 million in fiscal year 2024 to harden the system overall.
